Warriors’ Quinten Post Returns to Starting Lineup Against Nuggets

San Francisco, CA — Golden State Warriors rookie center Quinten Post will take the court as a starter against the Denver Nuggets on Monday night after being cleared to play following a right ankle injury. Reported by Dalton Johnson of NBC Sports Bay Area, Post was previously deemed questionable but has since received the green light.

This marks Post’s return to the starting lineup; he was utilized off the bench during Saturday’s game against the New York Knicks. In his last three games as a starter, he has averaged 9.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.0 assist, 1.0 steal, and 1.3 blocks.

“It’s been tough,” Post said during practice this week. “But I’m excited to get back out there and contribute to the team.”

The Warriors have experienced a turnaround this season, particularly after acquiring All-Star Jimmy Butler during the NBA trade deadline. With a month left in the regular season, they are gearing up for playoff contention, and Post’s return adds depth to the roster.

Meanwhile, Jonathan Kuminga is set to return from a lengthy injury absence in Thursday’s game against the Sacramento Kings, providing a much-needed boost. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr confirmed that Kuminga would initially come off the bench to regain his rhythm.

“With Jimmy and Kuminga back, we have another layer of versatility,” Kerr stated. “Kuminga’s playmaking and Post’s shooting should complement each other well.”

This synergy was highlighted during a brief pre-season scrimmage where Post and Kuminga played a few minutes together. Post remarked on their potential chemistry: “We’re both athletic, and I think we can work well together on both ends.”

While Post’s individual stats have earned him a starting role, his collaboration with Butler has also been effective; in 157 minutes together, they’ve produced a 13.0 net rating. Kerr noted this combination is strategic: “Having QP spread the floor alongside shooters allows Kuminga to attack the basket.”

Despite his young age and limited NBA experience, Post’s shooting has been a pleasant surprise. He’s draining 41.7% of his three-pointers this season, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive strategy.

In the wake of these changes, the Warriors’ performance will be closely scrutinized. They aim to close out the season strong, currently positioned half a game above the seventh-seed Minnesota Timberwolves.

“Every game matters right now,” Kerr emphasized, underscoring the importance of individual performances and team cohesion. “We can’t afford to overlook any matchup.”

The Warriors’ upcoming schedule, featuring All-Star big men like Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo, will be a critical test of their revamped roster. In addition, post-analysis of lineup performances indicates a preference for fitting players in positions that maximize their potential, particularly regarding Post and Kuminga’s interplay.